World Day of Prayer for Vocations - 13th April 2008 PDF Print E-mail
“The gift of faith calls all Christians to co-operate in the work of evangelisation…Vocations to the ministerial priesthood and to the consecrated life can only flourish in a spiritual soil that is well cultivated. Christian communities that live the missionary dimension of the mystery of the Church in a profound way will never be inward looking.”
(Extract from the message of Pope Benedict XVI for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations)

On this Fourth Sunday of Easter is celebrated the 45th World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Instituted by Pope Paul VI this day is an opportunity for the Church to pray earnestly for an increase in vocations to both the priesthood and religious life. Men are asked to discern carefully whether God might be calling them to serve His Church in the sacred priesthood. Women and men are also encouraged to consider embracing the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience by serving God in the consecrated life. The Holy Father has issued a message to mark this day with the theme ‘Vocations at the service of the Church on mission’.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Church of St John the Baptist on Sunday will include prayers for vocations. St Joseph’s Young Priests Society will lead a reflective recitation of the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. Adoration commences at 4.00pm and concludes with Benediction at 7.00pm.

Year of Vocation April 13th also inaugurates the ‘Year of Vocation’ in Ireland. This is an initiative by the Church which runs to the next World Day of Prayer for Vocations on 3rd May 2009. It challenges us to become more aware of ‘God’s call’ in our own lives. National campaigns and local initiatives will remind us of our Baptismal responsibilities to be God’s witnesses, to serve and love Him and others. Attention will be drawn to the specific vocations of Marriage, Priesthood, Religious Life and Single Life.

More information and links will be posted on the website as the year progresses.

Links

Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the 45th World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Fishers of Men
A promotional video on the priesthood commissioned by the US Catholic Bishops. Click on the play button below the screen.
Diocesan Prayer for Vocations

Lord, let me know clearly the work you are calling me to do in life, and grant me every grace to answer your call with courage, love and lasting dedication to your will. Amen.
 
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